Lake Wapello State Park

Entering the park off Eagle Avenue you’re likely to see several deer as you drive along Campground Road. Lake Wapello is on your left as well as a sturdy fishing pier with parking nearby. Campground Road will take you to a unique 1930′s stone and timber beach lodge. The lodge has a swimming beach, boat ramp, food, bait, boat rentals and restrooms available to the public. Further down the road are 14 well maintained family cabins. The cabins are said to sleep four comfortably and can be reserved online. Continue past the cabins and you will find a campground and boat ramp.

On the southeast side of the lake is Smith Knoll Shelter. The shelter is a charming old structure in varying states of decay. This area is popular for weddings and picnics.

There are approximately 7 miles of trail around the lake. You will undoubtedly see wild life while hiking. The trails take you through prairie, woodland and near wetland areas. Elevation gain is minimal which makes for a pleasant hike.

Campground

The campground is in decent shape and offers many shaded spots. Much of the campground is terraced into the side of a hill that overlooks the lake. Many camp sites are not level; however, you can find the slope of each site at the Online Reservation System. Larger RVs may find the turns in the campground little tight but manageable. Camp sites south of the parking lot are constructed of crushed stone. Sites north of the parking lot are grass and more suitable for tents.

The campground has excellent access to the water and offers good fishing along the shoreline. A modern paved boat ramp and dock can be located by following the campground road down to the water.

The restrooms and showers are in adequate condition and located in the center of the campground. The play-ground is also in a centralized location and can be seen from many campsites nearby.

Access to the dump station is excellent and campers will find it easy to pull through.

Final Impressions

Lake Wapello State Park is a scenic and pleasant place to spend a weekend. The parks strong points are fishing, wildlife viewing and the family cabins. This state park is off the beaten path which makes it a quiet refuge in southern Iowa.

Map

Pros:

Good fishing lake; Water is clear; Unique 1930′s stone and timber beach lodge.

Cons:

Some camp sites close to the water are not level. The lake has been drained in the summer of 2008. Should refill in spring 2009.

Contact:

15248 Campground Road
Drakesville, IA 52552

P: 641-722-3371
F: 641-722-3384
E: lake_wapello@dnr.iowa.gov

Links:

Iowa DNR State Parks
Iowa DNR Online Reservation System
Game & Fish
The Bloomfield Democrat
Weather Forecast

Gallery:

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